The document outlines 5 steps to an effective public apology: 1) Acknowledge wrongdoing, 2) Express genuine remorse, 3) Promise not to repeat the behavior, 4) Offer restitution, and 5) Ask for forgiveness. It provides examples from public figures like Barack Obama, Toyota's CEO, and Rupert Murdoch to illustrate each step.
7. Toyota CEO, Akio Toyoda I feel deeply sorry for those people who lost their lives or who were injured by traffic accidents, especially those in our own cars. I extend my sincerest condolences to them, from the bottom of my heart.
8. Ex-Citigroup CEO, Charles Prince "I can only say that I am deeply sorry that our management C starting with me C was not more prescient, and that we did not foresee what lay before us."
11. We all hold the readers of The New York Post in high regard and I promise you that we will seek to be more attuned to the sensitivities of our community. Rupert Murdoch
Barak Obamas apology over his handling of Tom Daschles nomination is a rare example of a classic apology when the confessor admits his mistake, expresses regret and provides reparation - all made with a great sense of humility.